Now VHP adds religious colour to Asaram Bapu controversy

Hyderabad, Sept 2: Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader Ashok Singhal ignited the latest controversy over self-styled godman Asaram Bapu. Singhal, while attending a meeting in Hyderabad on Sunday, Sept 1, said that Asaram has been made a victim due to an attack on "Hindu culture".

Singhal believes that Asaram was targeted as a part of a conspiracy against Hindu culture which had begun with the arrest of Kanchi Shankaracharya in 2004.

Questioning the critics of Asaram, Singhal said, "The latest instance of insult that has come up is one involving Asaram Bapu. He is 80-year-old. You arrest him on charges of raping a girl?"

"This is not about his arrest. This is telling the Hindu community that we will finish your feelings of respect towards a religious leader," claimed the VHP leader.

VHP ignites Asaram controversy

Singhal also added, "These allegations are being made (against someone) at the age of 80. Are they not ashamed of it? It is understandable if such allegations are made against a young person."

"Hindu culture is being attacked. Our saints are being attacked today. Charges are thrust against saints. Shankaracharyaji was arrested in Hyderabad on Diwali day in 2004. He was arrested in connection with allegations of murder ....," added Singhal.

Meanwhile,Jodhpur Police on Monday, Sept 2 said that self-styled godman failed to defend himself and a chargesheet in the case would be filed soon.

Asaram claimed innocence after he cleared a potency test conducted on him at the SN Medical college in Jodhpur. As of now, Asaram is the only accused in sexual assault case and the police officials have not ruled out more arrests. But investigations will soon be carried out.